FREE dog obedience classes are being launched in New Brancepeth to promote responsible ownership.

The seven-week course will be held at New Brancepeth Community Centre, on Saturdays, between 10am and noon, from next week.

They are aimed at people in the Deerness Valley area aged 16 and over who have dogs aged over six months.

The classes are being run as part of the area's Single Regeneration Budget scheme.

Certificates will be presented for successful completion of the course and an agility competition may be held at the end of it.

Places are limited and can be booked by calling Carol West on 0191-373 7597.